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Pogona
	Pogona vitticeps
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia;
Phylum:	Chordata;
Class:	Reptilia;
Order:	Squamata;
Suborder:	Sauria;
Family:	Agamidae;
Subfamily:	Agaminae;
Genus:	Pogona;
Species
	Pogona barbata; Pogona henrylawsoni; Pogona microlepidota; Pogona minima; Pogona minor; Pogona nullarbor; Pogona vitticeps

Pogona is a genus of lizards containing seven species, which are given the common name of Bearded Dragon.

 they live in the arid, rocky, semi-desert regions and arid open woodlands of Australia. They are adept climbers, spending time on branches and in bushes, even found on fence posts when living near human habitation. They also bask on rocks and exposed branches in the mornings and afternoons. The species are found throughout Australia and are well known.^[1]

Several species of the genus have been domesticated, especially Pogona vitticeps, and a Bearded Dragon in captivity may be kept as a pet or exhibited.

[edit] Description

The genus is in the subfamily Agaminae of the family Agamidae. Their characteristics include spiny scales arranged in rows and clusters. These are found on the throat, which can be expanded threatened, and at the back of the head. The species also displays a hand-waving gesture, thought to draw an attack from any predator that may be in the area. They also have the chameleon-like ability to change colours during rivalry challenges between males, and in response to temperature change and other stimuli.^[1]

[edit] In Captivity

Bearded dragons are very successful in captivity and are one of the favourites among hobbyists and experts alike. They have a very friendly nature towards people, and are very calm when they grow into adults. Juveniles are generally very hyper but still very friendly, and they are even good pets for children, with supervision of course. They have an average life span of 5 - 10 years although some have been known to live longer.

[edit] Diversity

The following is a list of species

Pogona barbata Cuvier 1829
Pogona henrylawsoni Wells & Wellington 1985
Pogona microlepidota Glauert 1952
Pogona minima Loveridge 1933
Pogona minor Sternfeld 1919
Pogona nullarbor Badham 1976
Pogona vitticeps Ahl 1926

[edit] References

^ ^a ^b Browne-Cooper, Robert; Brian Bush, Brad Maryan, David Robinson (2007). Reptiles and Frogs in the Bush: Southwestern Australia. University of Western Australia Press. pp. p. 160. ISBN 9778 1 920694 74 6. "Pogona minor minor, Abrolhos Bearded Dragon"